Power Stick / Scepter – Wood, Bone – Lega – DR Congo

Beautiful power stick stick from the Lega people of DR Congo. The scepter is made out of wood and has a typical ancestor figure sitting ont op. The staff is in good condition with traces of wear and tear. Large piece, total length: 92 cm!

Certain objects (power sticks, scepters, fly swatters, etc.) are exclusive attributes of the function of chief or king, a set of objects that we call re galia . These are the material symbols of the chief’s power.

Command staffs or scepters have always been the insignia of African kings. In some cases, they may also have played the role of phallic symbols evoking notions of power and fertility, in association with royalty.

The scepter was so important in symbolizing royal power that even when it was not in the hands of the sovereign, it was shown the respect due to the leader.

Provenance: former private Italian collection.